Manali is a land of contrasts. There is an endless number of things to do in Manali for fun and peace. On one hand are the enduring high peaks that surround this beauty. Add to this the spice of adventure sports, crystal clear falls, crisp weather, peaceful temples and you begin to appreciate the mysterious music of this year-long magnet. In winters, snow paints the village white. This summer, plan an escape to the heavenly abode and experience all that this has to offer.

12 Best Things To Do In Manali

Manali is an awesome hill station that never disappoints its visitors. Though it is a popular tourist destination, there are many unique experiences that it offers, unlike the other mainstream hill stations. Let’s jump straight to the list of 10 exciting & unique things to do in Manali in summer for an amazing holiday.

1. Waterfalls – Listen To The Music

One of the best things to do in Manali in summer is to enjoy the nature. With the most serene cascades that greet you with aromatic air, dense silver birch trees and pristine views, rediscover yourself while you indulge in sweet nothings at Jogini Falls, or Zana Falls. A trip to Manali will be incomplete without a picnic at Rahala Falls. Located at a distance of about 17 km from Manali, nests this romantic fall.

Himachal Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

Head to Himachal to witness lush valleys surrounded by snow-capped hills. Indulge in skiing, paragliding, and other adventure sports. Book holiday packages inclusive of airport transfers, cab, resort, sightseeing, and meals to Shimla, Manali, Kasol, Dharamshala, and more.

2. Temples – Pay A Visit To The Almighty

Wondering what to do in Manali for some spiritual guidance and inner peace? Manali is laden with magnificent monasteries and ancient temples beholding legendary stories. Not only are they sacred but they are a popular attractions amongst tourists. While here, paying a visit to the Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple and mystic monasteries should definitely be on your list of things to do in Manali.

3. Adventure Sports – Indulge In Exciting Activities

One of the most exciting things to do in Manali in May and June is to indulge in various activities. Whilst in Manali, live up to your adventures alter ego with a plethora of options at Solang Valley. The Beas River presents challenging rapids from Pirdi to Jhiri. Follow this up with some trekking and camping. You can also enroll in a fun cycling day tour that unwraps Manali for you.

To mark open the sports trail visit the adventure sports centre’s headquarters at Aleo, 3km south of Manali. They will gladly arrange a host of activities and courses for you.

4. Museum Of Himachal Culture & Folk Art – Explore The Past

Walk through time as you explore the unique and extraordinary collection of unknown and rare antiques such as religious relics, household objects, instruments, weapons, architectural wood carvings, scale models and more at the Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk art. You’ll find that spending some time amid Manali’s history and heritage is definitely on the most fun things to do in Manali.

5. Shri Hari Yoga Ashram – Practice Some Yoga

Add a new skill to your life whilst on a trip to Manali! Register for yoga at the Shri Hari Yoga Ashram. Yoga classes at the orange-roofed ashram are quite popular. In fact, yoga is among the best things to do in old Manali for those who are visiting the hills in search of rejuvenation and peace.

6. Manali Wildlife Sanctuary – Ride A Yak

Number six i.e. riding a Yak is one of the top things to do in Manali. While you are on admiring the wildlife, stop over at the Manali wildlife sanctuary. This terrain hugs lush green forests and snow-capped mountains. This sanctuary greets you with the sights and sounds of colourful birds and exotic flora and fauna – snow leopards, brown bears, musk deer, ibex herds, kokla and kingfisher.

7. Kwality Sher-e-Punjab – Taste Some Yummy Food

Satiate your taste buds with delectable Punjabi and South Indian cuisine at the famed Kwality Sher-e-Punjab restaurant. This bright eatery wears the crown of being Manali’s most loved restaurant. Dining here is considered one of the best things to do near Manali owing to the awesome food, amazing hospitality, and quick service that you get to experience here.

8. Arjun Gufa – Meditate And Relax

Find your chi at the historic cave where once the Pandava king Arjun meditated. Embrace the silence of this beauty as you explore the exotic view of this region. And the best part – you won’t find this place crowded with throngs of tourists since not many know about, making a visit to this cave one of the most offbeat things to do in Manali.

9. Vashist Hot Water Springs – Take A Healing Bath

One of the mysterious yet mesmerizing things to do in Manali in May & June is to bathe in the hot water spring and experience its healing powers. Located near the Beas River, Vashisht village is flooded with tourist. The hot spring is believed to possess healing powers natural minerals. Go right ahead a take a dip and know for yourself whether the magic exists.

10. Rohtang Pass – Go On A Bike Ride

Adventure junkies – this has to rank highest on your list of things to do in Manali. Wear your heart on your sleeves as you ride through the Rohtang Pass with snow on either side and with majestic views of the valley right in front you. Pir Panjal mountain ranges and surreal views of the landscape will mesmerize you like the best travel mates. Riding a bike or ATV over the snow is one experience you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Manali.

11. Beas Kund – Trek To The Top

Beas Kund is an amazing place near Manali for people who love to trek. Trekking and hiking enthusiasts who visit Manali always ensure that they indulge in the Beas Kund trek to get closer to nature and be entertained with magnificent views of the Pir Panjal ranges from the top. And once at the top, you will be blessed with magical views of a melting glacial lake that happens to be the originating point of the Beas Lake. You don’t have to be a hardcore expert trekker to indulge in this one, as it is one of the shortest and easiest treks in Himachal.

Best time for Beas Kund trek: Any time of the year, except the rainy season

12. Manikaran Gurudwara – Take A Sulphur Water Bath

One of the most prominent religious centers in the town of Manali, the Manikaran Sahib is a must-visit for everyone who visits these hills. Located just 45 km away from Kullu, it is easily accessible via a bus or taxi ride from the city center. Other than the tranquilizing aura and peaceful vibes, the highlight of this place are the sulfur hot springs. One can bathe in this healing and soothing water in the designation stone basins and caves here and it’ll surely be an experience to remember for a lifetime!

Cost: Taking a sulfur bath here is free of cost.

Best Time To Visit Manali

Though Manali invites tourists all the year round, however, April to June are ideal months to explore the beautiful destination. Those who wish to enjoy the snow should visit from December to February.

How To Reach Manali

By Air: The nearest airport is at Bhuntar, located approximately 50 kilometres awayBy Road: Manali is very well-connected to important tourist destinations like Leh, Shimla, Kullu, Dharamshala and New Delhi by means of a network of state-run buses.

We bet you didn’t know there were so many things to do in Manali to suit your fancy. Plan your summer escapade to Himachal now and take along this list of exciting and unique activities in Manali so that you don’t have to miss out on any experience that this hip hamlet has to offer! And if you are aware of any more things to do here, let us know in the comments below.

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